Global professional services firm EY and tech giant Microsoft announced today the launch of Green Skills Passport, a new free online education program aimed at equipping young people with skills to gain sustainability skills to find green jobs and pursue green economy opportunities.
The new program forms part of a collaboration announced between EY and Microsoft last year aimed at upskilling young people and supporting the entry or re-entry of millions of people into the workforce or to build new businesses, with a focus on sustainability, science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM).
Jean-Philippe Courtois, EVP and President, National Transformation Partnerships at Microsoft, said:
“We’re proud to continue growing our collaboration with EY to offer these unique programs that bridge the gap between education and employability. Through these programs, we are taking steps toward social equity and empowering leaders of the future.”
According to the companies, the new program aims to address a skills gap in sustainability, as the International Labor Organization estimates 24 million green jobs will be created by 2030.
The program includes a 10-hour virtual course, using EY-curated learning paths and delivered on the Microsoft Community Training platform, on key topics including sustainability, entrepreneurship and skills for employment. In addition to receiving an EY and Microsoft certificate on completion, the course provides access to a database of websites and resources to search for green jobs, and includes employability skills, including resume writing and preparing for interviews.
EY and Microsoft said that the launch follows successful Green Skills Passport pilot programs in the U.S., India and Bangladesh, with over 1,400 course completions, including 61% who plan to apply for green jobs, and 43% who plan to enroll in a university degree in sustainability or to take more related classes.
Andy Baldwin, EY Global Managing Partner – Client Service, said:
“The collaboration between EY and Microsoft extends beyond a traditional alliance, showcasing our shared dedication to generating social impact. These programs are a testament of our desire to continue equipping young individuals with the skills they need to succeed in a rapidly changing world.”
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